Matthew 7:21 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically part of the Sermon on the Mount, which is a collection of teachings by Jesus that covers various aspects of moral and spiritual life. The verse reads:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
Meaning and Interpretation:
Authenticity of Faith: This verse emphasizes that merely verbal acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord is insufficient for salvation or entry into the kingdom of heaven. It suggests that true faith must be accompanied by action. In other words, it is not enough to simply profess belief in Jesus; one’s life must reflect that belief through obedience to God’s will.
Doing the Will of God: The latter part of the verse points to the necessity of actively doing God’s will. This implies that there is a moral and ethical dimension to faith that requires believers to live in accordance with God’s teachings and commandments. It suggests that actions—specifically those that align with God’s desires—are the true indicator of one’s faith.
Judgment and Accountability: The verse also carries a warning about judgment. It indicates that there will be a discernment process where not all who claim to be followers of Christ will be accepted into heaven. This serves as a reminder that God evaluates the genuineness of one’s faith and commitment, beyond mere words.
Call to Self-Examination: For believers, Matthew 7:21 serves as a call to self-examination regarding their relationship with God. It encourages individuals to reflect on whether their actions and lifestyle genuinely align with their professed beliefs.
Context in the Sermon on the Mount: This teaching is part of a broader discourse where Jesus addresses various aspects of righteousness, hypocrisy, and the nature of true discipleship. It reinforces the idea that true followers of Christ are those who embody the principles of love, justice, and humility in their daily lives.
Overall, Matthew 7:21 serves as a profound reminder that faith is not just a matter of words but is evidenced through a life lived in accordance with God’s will. It challenges believers to ensure that their faith is genuine and transformative.